Winter Pipe Burst Prevention in Metro Atlanta
Metro Atlanta pipe bursts spike in December-February. Here's how to prevent them.
When Metro Atlanta pipes are at risk
Most bursts happen when overnight temperatures drop below 20F for 6+ hours, especially after a warm week. Older homes with pipes in exterior walls or unheated crawlspaces are highest risk.
Fall checklist
Disconnect and drain outdoor hoses. Install foam covers on hose bibs. Blow out or drain irrigation. Insulate exposed pipes in crawlspace, garage, or attic. Locate your main water shutoff. Seal air leaks around foundation vents.
Before a hard freeze
Open cabinet doors under sinks on exterior walls. Let cold-side faucets on exterior walls drip pencil-lead thin. Set thermostat no lower than 60F. Open interior doors for airflow.
If you lose pressure or hear water
Shut off the main water valve. Open all faucets to drain. Turn off electric water heater breaker if tank drains. Locate the burst. Call a plumber and restoration.
After a burst
Document with photos before cleanup. Extract water within 2-4 hours - mold starts in 48-72. Call your carrier. Get a Xactimate estimate.
Insurance angle
Georgia insurance covers pipe bursts from sudden freezing only if you maintained heat above 55F. Vacancy clauses can deny coverage on empty properties without drained plumbing.